16 Outstation players to be part of TNPL 3

According to a BCCI directive, uncapped players, who were not part of the Indian Premier League 2018, only were eligible to be a part of the draft. The salary cap will remain the same when compared to those of the home-grown players from Tamil Nadu.

Defending champion Chepauk Super Gillies roped in wicket-keeper Kedar Devdhar and Shaurya Sanandia from Baroda CA and Saurashtra CA respectively. Former India Under-19 captain Unmukt Chand (DDCA) was snapped up by Idream Karaikudi Kaalai.

While the outstation players await clearance, former India cricketer Laxman Sivaramakrishnan felt there was 'no harm' in featuring them as long as they get approval from their respective boards.  

"All the players have got a 'No objective certificate' from their respective host associations. When people can go and play county cricket in England, what's the harm in bring in outstation players with approvals from associations," said Sivaramakrishnan during a press briefing at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. 

"Every cricketer needs more exposure. The more you play the game, the better you become. Let us look at the overall picture, TNPL is also a platform for players from other states to exhibit their talents," added the commentator.

The spinner asserted the players should be allowed to play in T20 leagues of their choice but should also abide by the norms of the board. 

"Cricket is not just a sport, it's a profession or a career. I have seen people drop out from schools and colleges to play it. As a cricketer, I would be disappointed if I am not allowed to pick and choose where to play as long as it is under the laws," he pointed out.

VB Kanchi Veerans owner VB Chandrasekar felt the league would present an opportunity to other state players who failed to hog the limelight in recent years. 

"These players are fairly experienced. The tournament would present you the quality of a player in a capsule, includes skill level as well as mental standards. It gives them a chance to come back and show what they have," said Chandrasekar.